UN Secretary-General voices deep concern over plight of Syrian nuns

UNITED NATION, December 10, 3:19 /ITAR-TASS/. UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon is deeply troubled by the situation around the twelve Eastern Orthodox nuns adducted from the world-famous St Tecla convent in the Syrian village of Ma’aloula, a spokesperson for the Secretary General said in a statement issued Monday.

“The Secretary-General remains deeply troubled by the targeting of places of worship and religious representatives in Syria's conflict,” the spokesperson said. “These concerns are most recently underscored by the situation of the twelve nuns who went missing from Saint Tecla Orthodox Convent in Ma’aloula.”

“The Secretary-General joins in the appeals for their safety and well-being, and that of all persons who may be detained against their will in Syria,” the statement indicated.

“The United Nations rejects any targeting of persons based on their religion, community or ethnic affiliation,” the spokesperson said. “Civilians throughout Syria are at risk and must be protected.